capeweed

noun

often capitalized
1
: an archil lichen (Roccella tinctoria) abundant in the Cape Verde islands
2
[Cape of Good Hope + English weed] : a low-growing yellow-flowered composite herb (Cryptostemma calendulacea) that is native to southern Africa but introduced into Australia and New Zealand where it is usually considered a troublesome weed
3
[Cape of Good Hope + English weed] : cat's-ear

Word History

Etymology

Cape Verde islands, Portuguese colony off West Africa + English weed

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Cite this Entry

“Capeweed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/capeweed. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

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